The Biochar Show

Designing Our Carbon Future. From Soil to Advanced Materials w Bill Hilgendorf

Bill Hilgendorf joins The Biochar Show to discuss his journey from furniture design to biochar production, on-farm education, advanced carbon materials, and the future of biocarbon markets.
We explore New York Carbon, White Feather Farm, biochar adoption, standards development, carbon markets, and emerging opportunities in construction materials and the built environment.
ABOUT THE GUESTBill Hilgendorf, NYCarbon.CO
Bio: 
Trained as an industrial designer, Bill became interested in discarded items and materials at a young age, always thinking about ways they could be fixed or modified to bring a new function or purpose to them. Much of his career has focused on upcycling and telling the story of a material through the design and process of creating something new and functional. When Bill shifted his focus more clearly on the climate crisis and learned about biochar, something clicked. Not only are you able to utilize vast amounts of residue and waste that left alone become a carbon liability, but through the process of pyrolysis you can convert that waste to a stable carbon that will persist for a millennium and can be used to help rebuild soils, suck up toxins and decarbonize the built environment. In many ways biochar represents the ultimate upcycled material.  
https://www.whitefeatherfarm.org/biochar-soil-healthhttps://www.nycarbon.co/https://www.echosystems.earth/
 
ABOUT THE HOST
Since 2019, John Webster ( / john801  ) has run Go Biochar (GoBiochar.com, a leading source for bulk biochar sales & service, biochar technical consulting, field demonstrations, and product development across agriculture, forestry, fuels, and carbon markets. John serves as Director of Development for BiocharOnSite (biocharonsite.org) and was former Director of Communications for the US Biochar Initiative. Through these roles, he has helped expand awareness, shape national conversations, and move the industry toward commercial adoption. John brings deep experience and a storyteller’s approach to the program. His mission is to connect the dots between local practices and global carbon goals. For him, biochar is a key to rebuilding resilient soils, slashing emissions, and creating circular economies. Nature pulls carbon from the sky. Biochar helps us keep it in the ground!
 
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The Biochar Show is a Production of Biochar Today. Visit biochartoday.com for more information.Opening and closing music by Timothy Harfield."Style" Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: 4FDG77H2CA0RHWHO
Keywords:#Biochar #CarbonCredits #Sustainability #BiocharProducts #upcycling #Environment #RegenerativeFarming

Will Your Biochar Qualify? The ASABE Biochar Standard Explained

In this episode of The Biochar Show, John Webster leads a conversation that delves into the foundational aspects of biochar standards, emphasizing the importance of consistency, transparency, and market confidence. The guests discuss the challenges faced in the biochar industry, particularly regarding testing methods and the need for standardized practices. They highlight the role of the new American National Standard for Biochar in enhancing trust and facilitating market access. The discussion also touches on the significance of carbon credits and the future of biochar as a scalable climate solution.
About the Guests
Myles Gray (Executive Director, US Biochar Initiative) leads U.S. market development and standards initiatives for biochar.org. Works across policy, material specifications, and industry adoption of biochar products and carbon removal applications.
USBI
Myles on LinkedIn
Chris Wiberg (Vice President, Biomass Energy Lab / Timber Products Inspection) is a specialist in solid biofuel and biochar laboratory testing. Project leader for the American National Standard for Biochar and U.S. Technical Advisory Group Chair to ISO TC 238.
Biomass Energy Lab
Timber Products Inspection
Chris on LinkedIn
Annie Nichols (General Manager of Biochar, Mangrove Systems) leads carbon certification strategy and digital MRV frameworks for biochar projects. Previously oversaw the commercialization of 20,000+ biochar carbon credits at Pacific Biochar.
Mangrove Systems
Annie on LinkedIn
About the Host
Since 2019, John Webster has run Go Biochar, a leading source for bulk biochar sales & service, biochar technical consulting, field demonstrations, and product development across agriculture, forestry, fuels, and carbon markets. John serves as Director of Development for BiocharOnSite and was formerly the Director of Communications for the US Biochar Initiative. Through these roles, he has helped expand awareness, shape national conversations, and move the industry toward commercial adoption. John brings deep experience and a storyteller’s approach to the program. His mission is to connect the dots between local practices and global carbon goals. For him, biochar is more than a product. It’s a key to rebuilding resilient soils, slashing emissions, and creating circular economies. Nature pulls carbon from the sky. Biochar helps us keep it in the ground!
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The Biochar Show is a Production of Biochar Today. Visit biochartoday.com for more information.

Dr. Toufiq Reza: Could Biochar be the Key to Unlocking Martian Agriculture?

In this episode of The Biochar Show, John Webster interviews Dr. Toufiq Reza, an expert in hydrochar and hydrothermal carbonization (HTC). They discuss the potential of biochar and hydrochar in agriculture, water treatment, and even on Mars. Dr. Reza explains the differences between biochar and hydrochar, their applications, and the challenges of commercialization. The conversation also touches on nutrient retention, PFAS remediation, and the future of these technologies in addressing environmental issues both on Earth and in space.
About the Host
Since 2019, John Webster has run Go Biochar, a leading source for bulk biochar sales & service, biochar technical consulting, field demonstrations, and product development across agriculture, forestry, fuels, and carbon markets. John serves as Director of Development for BiocharOnSite and was formerly the Director of Communications for the US Biochar Initiative. Through these roles, he has helped expand awareness, shape national conversations, and move the industry toward commercial adoption. John brings deep experience and a storyteller’s approach to the program. His mission is to connect the dots between local practices and global carbon goals. For him, biochar is more than a product. It’s a key to rebuilding resilient soils, slashing emissions, and creating circular economies. Nature pulls carbon from the sky. Biochar helps us keep it in the ground!
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The Biochar Show is a Production of Biochar Today. Visit biochartoday.com for more information.

Chris Wiberg: Inside the World of Biochar Testing

In this episode of The Biochar Show, host John Webster speaks with Chris Wiberg from Timber Products Inspection about the importance of biochar testing standards and the development of the American National Standard for biochar analysis. They discuss the challenges faced by the industry, the need for consistent testing methodologies, and the impact of these standards on the biochar market. Chris shares insights from his extensive experience in laboratory testing and the future directions for biochar research and development.
Related Links
Chris Wiberg on LinkedIn
Biomass Energy Lab
Timber Products Inspection
 
About the Host
Since 2019, John Webster has run Go Biochar, a leading source for bulk biochar sales & service, biochar technical consulting, field demonstrations, and product development across agriculture, forestry, fuels, and carbon markets. John serves as Director of Development for BiocharOnSite and was formerly the Director of Communications for the US Biochar Initiative. Through these roles, he has helped expand awareness, shape national conversations, and move the industry toward commercial adoption. John brings deep experience and a storyteller’s approach to the program. His mission is to connect the dots between local practices and global carbon goals. For him, biochar is more than a product. It’s a key to rebuilding resilient soils, slashing emissions, and creating circular economies. Nature pulls carbon from the sky. Biochar helps us keep it in the ground!
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The Biochar Show is a Production of Biochar Today. Visit biochartoday.com for more information.

Kelpie Wilson: The Biochar Industry Past, Present, and Future

In this episode of the Biochar Show, host John Webster interviews Kelpie Wilson, a pioneer in the biochar industry. They discuss Kelpie's journey from mechanical engineering to becoming a key figure in biochar initiatives. The conversation covers the discovery of terra preta, the challenges of scaling the biochar industry, practical applications of biochar, innovations in production methods, and the role of biochar in wildfire management. Kelpie emphasizes the importance of using biochar to manage organic waste and its potential benefits for soil health and carbon sequestration. In this conversation, Kelpie Wilson and John Webster discuss the multifaceted benefits of biochar, including its applications in agriculture, emissions testing, and community engagement. They explore the importance of education in dispelling misconceptions about biochar production and its environmental impact. The discussion also covers the evolution of biochar programs, the significance of scientific research, and the practical applications of biochar in water management and soil health. The conversation emphasizes the need for standards and testing in biochar production, as well as the role of community involvement in advancing biochar initiatives
RELATED LINKS
The Biochar Handbook
Practical Biochar Course
Ring Of Fire Biochar Kiln
The Biochar Prepper (Substack)
Mobile biochar production by flame carbonization: Reducing wildfire risk and improving forest resilience
Kelpie on YouTube
Kelpie on Instagram
Kelpie on LinkedIn
Wilson Biochar
ABOUT THE HOST
Since 2019, John Webster has run Go Biochar, a leading source for bulk biochar sales & service, biochar technical consulting, field demonstrations, and product development across agriculture, forestry, fuels, and carbon markets. John serves as Director of Development for BiocharOnSite and was formerly the Director of Communications for the US Biochar Initiative. Through these roles, he has helped expand awareness, shape national conversations, and move the industry toward commercial adoption. John brings deep experience and a storyteller’s approach to the program. His mission is to connect the dots between local practices and global carbon goals. For him, biochar is more than a product. It’s a key to rebuilding resilient soils, slashing emissions, and creating circular economies. Nature pulls carbon from the sky. Biochar helps us keep it in the ground!
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The Biochar Show is a Production of Biochar Today.

Zack Farr & Wyatt Catron: Reviving Florida's Citrus Industry with Biochar

In this episode of the Biochar Show, host John Webster explores the intersection of biochar technology and the challenges faced by Florida's citrus industry due to Citrus Greening. Featuring Zack Farr (CEO, Biotech Applied Research) and Wyatt Catron (Project Development Manager, Carbon Markets at 3Degrees Group), the discussion highlights innovative solutions, economic implications, and the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders in agriculture. The role of carbon credits and the future prospects for sustainable farming practices are also examined, emphasizing the need for community engagement and technological advancements in biochar production. In this engaging conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of the biochar industry, focusing on carbon credits, community impact, job creation, and sustainability. They explore the challenges and opportunities in scaling operations, the importance of training and collaboration, and the role of federal programs in supporting biochar initiatives. The discussion highlights the optimism surrounding the future of biochar as a viable solution for environmental challenges and economic growth.
RELATED LINKS
Applied Biotech Research
3Degrees Inc
Zack Farr on LinkedIn
Wyatt Catron on LinkedIn 
ABOUT THE HOST
Since 2019, John Webster has run Go Biochar, a leading source for bulk biochar sales & service, biochar technical consulting, field demonstrations, and product development across agriculture, forestry, fuels, and carbon markets. John serves as Director of Development for BiocharOnSite and was formerly the Director of Communications for the US Biochar Initiative. Through these roles, he has helped expand awareness, shape national conversations, and move the industry toward commercial adoption. John brings deep experience and a storyteller’s approach to the program. His mission is to connect the dots between local practices and global carbon goals. For him, biochar is more than a product. It’s a key to rebuilding resilient soils, slashing emissions, and creating circular economies. Nature pulls carbon from the sky. Biochar helps us keep it in the ground!
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The Biochar Show is a Production of Biochar Today.

Brian Borkowicz & Noah Pechatsko: Biochar Innovation and the Future of Tree Care

In this episode of the Biochar Show, host John Webster engages with Brian Borkowitz and Noah Pechatsko from Davy Tree, discussing their passion for trees, the importance of urban resilience, and the role of biochar in sustainable tree care. They explore the challenges of biomass management, customer satisfaction, and the benefits of incorporating biochar into soil health and plant performance. The conversation also delves into the operational aspects of building a biochar facility, the significance of carbon credits, and the future of biochar in the market. The episode concludes with a focus on the commitment to environmental responsibility and the potential for biochar to contribute to a sustainable future.
RELATED LINKS
Davey Makes Strides Towards Greater Sustainability with New Biochar Facility
Biochar at Davey Tree
ABOUT THE HOST
Since 2019, John Webster has run Go Biochar, a leading source for bulk biochar sales & service, biochar technical consulting, field demonstrations, and product development across agriculture, forestry, fuels, and carbon markets. John serves as Director of Development for BiocharOnSite and was formerly the Director of Communications for the US Biochar Initiative. Through these roles, he has helped expand awareness, shape national conversations, and move the industry toward commercial adoption. John brings deep experience and a storyteller’s approach to the program. His mission is to connect the dots between local practices and global carbon goals. For him, biochar is more than a product. It’s a key to rebuilding resilient soils, slashing emissions, and creating circular economies. Nature pulls carbon from the sky. Biochar helps us keep it in the ground!
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The Biochar Show is a Production of Biochar Today. Visit https://biochartoday.com for more information

Kristin Trippe: USDA Investment in Biochar for Soil Health

In this episode of the Biochar Show, host John Webster speaks with Dr. Kristin Trippe from USDA ARS about her journey into soil science, the development of the Biochar Atlas, and the integration of biochar into sustainable agricultural practices. They discuss the importance of decision support tools for farmers, the role of biochar in enhancing soil health, and the ongoing research needs in the field. Dr. Trippe emphasizes the significance of STEM education in promoting soil health and shares insights on the future of biochar research and its applications in agriculture.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Dr. Kristin Trippe is a distinguished research microbiologist with the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) at the Forage, Seed, and Cereal Research Unit in Corvallis. With over 14 years of experience, her work focuses on the impact of biochar on soil health, including microbial dynamics and carbon sequestration. As a board member of the U.S. Biochar Initiative, she translates cutting-edge research into practical guidance for sustainable agriculture. Dr. Trippe's contributions include the USDA ARS biochar roadmap and the Pacific Northwest Biochar Atlas, a decision-support platform for biochar application.
Kristin Trippe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-trippe-07a99a63 
Biochar Atlas: https://www.pnwbiochar.org/
Web Soil Survey: https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov
A biochar selection method for remediating heavy metal contaminated mine tailings: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11684517/
USBI Fact Sheet on Interpreting Lab Results: https://biochar-us.org/interpreting-biochar-lab-reports
ABOUT THE HOST
Since 2019, John Webster (https://linkedin.com/in/john801) has run Go Biochar (https://gobiochar.com), a leading source for bulk biochar sales & service, biochar technical consulting, field demonstrations, and product development across agriculture, forestry, fuels, and carbon markets. John serves as Director of Development for BiocharOnSite (https://www.biocharonsite.org) and was formerly the Director of Communications for the US Biochar Initiative. Through these roles, he has helped expand awareness, shape national conversations, and move the industry toward commercial adoption. John brings deep experience and a storyteller’s approach to the program. His mission is to connect the dots between local practices and global carbon goals. For him, biochar is more than a product. it’s a key to rebuilding resilient soils, slashing emissions, and creating circular economies. Nature pulls carbon from the sky. Biochar helps us keep it in the ground!
SUBSCRIBE TO THE BIOCHAR SHOW
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#Biochar #SoilScience #USDA #Agriculture #Carbon Sequestration #SoilHealth #BiocharAtlas #NRCS #ConservationPractices #SustainableAgriculture

Jim Doten: Unlocking the Potential of Municipal Biochar

In this episode of The Biochar Show, host John Webster interviews Jim Doten, the Carbon Sequestration Program Manager for the City of Minneapolis and a leading advocate for municipal biochar. They discuss the significance of biochar in urban environments, the challenges faced in its implementation, and the role of the Minnesota Biochar Initiative (MNBI) in promoting its use. Jim shares insights on the upcoming North American Biochar Conference, the importance of community engagement, and the potential for biochar to address environmental justice issues. The conversation also touches on funding opportunities, regulatory challenges, and the future of biochar in urban applications.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Jim Doten is a seasoned environmental professional and long-time advocate for biochar. Jim currently serves as the Carbon Sequestration Program Manager for the City of Minneapolis, where he's leading efforts to advance durable carbon storage strategies, including the use of biochar in urban and natural systems. He brings nearly four decades of experience as a professional geologist/hydrologist and has previously held the role of Supervisor of Environmental Services for the city. Jim is also the founder of the Minnesota Biochar Initiative and serves on the board of the U.S. Biochar Initiative, helping to shape national dialogue on carbon removal and ecosystem resilience. A military veteran and former U.S. Army hydrologist, Jim holds a Master’s in Environmental Policy and Management from American Military University, along with an MBA. His background bridges science, policy, and public service—making him a powerful voice in the growing movement to turn waste biomass into climate solutions.
RELATED LINKS
Jim Doten on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-doten-008b3120/
Minnesota Biochar Initiative: https://www.mnbiocharinitiative.org
North American Biochar Conference: https://www.biocharconference.com/
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The Biochar Show is a Production of Biochar Today. Visit https://biochartoday.com for more information

Harper Moss & Gregory Ray: Farming Innovation with Biochar

In this episode of The Biochar Show, host Megan K. Lees engages with Harper Moss and Gregory Ray, co-founders of Carbon Zero, to discuss their innovative approach to biochar and its potential impact on sustainable farming and climate action. The conversation covers the origins of their mission, the science behind biochar, the challenges of educating farmers, and the technological advancements being made to scale biochar production. They also address market challenges, funding strategies, and the importance of partnerships in driving their vision forward. The episode concludes with actionable steps for listeners to contribute to carbon reduction and regenerative practices.
 
ABOUT THE GUESTS
Driven by a passion for planetary impact, 15-year-old Harper Moss envisioned CarbonZero.eco. Her exploration of carbon capture led her to biochar, recognizing its immediate potential to significantly reduce global carbon output and revitalize farmlands, a practice she's determined to introduce to Californian farmers and beyond for a more sustainable future.
With two decades of experience building tech businesses, Gregory Ray co-founded OEM.com in 2007 and Seek Mobile Interactive in 2008, whose 3D engine powered the top-grossing iPhone game Riddim Ribbon. He later co-founded Ever Adventure Ltd., a social-gaming company in the European real-money market that reached over $20 million in annual revenue. Gregory offers extensive technical and management expertise.
 
Related Links
CarbonZero.eco
Oasis Vineyard Trial
 
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The Biochar Show is a Production of Biochar Today. Visit https://biochartoday.com for more information